The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is one of Europe's leading symphony orchestras. Formed in 1891 as the Scottish Orchestra, the company became the Scottish National Orchestra in 1950, and was awarded Royal Patronage in 1991. Throughout its proud history, the Orchestra has played an important part in Scotland's musical life, including performing at the opening ceremony of the Scottish Parliament building in 2004.

Frédéric Chopin (1810–1849)
Frédéric François Chopin was a Polish composer and virtuoso pianist of the Romantic era, widely regarded as one of the greatest masters of piano music. Born on March 1, 1810, in Żelazowa Wola, Poland, Chopin showed prodigious talent from an early age, performing in Warsaw's salons by the age of seven.

At the age of 20, Chopin left Poland, eventually settling in Paris, which became his creative home. Despite his fragile health, he became a central figure in the city's vibrant artistic circles, forming lasting relationships with luminaries like Franz Liszt, George Sand (his lover and muse), and other leading artists of the time.

Chopin's compositions are celebrated for their lyrical beauty, innovative harmonies, and technical brilliance. His works for solo piano include 21 nocturnes, 24 preludes, 27 études, 4 ballades, and 2 piano concertos, as well as numerous waltzes, polonaises, and mazurkas that reflect his deep connection to Polish folk music. His Études, in particular, revolutionized piano technique and remain a cornerstone of the instrument’s repertoire.

A deeply expressive and introspective artist, Chopin’s music bridges the gap between classical traditions and the emotive Romantic spirit. His compositions are characterized by a delicate balance of virtuosity and poetic depth, earning him the nickname "the poet of the piano."

Chopin's health deteriorated in his later years due to tuberculosis, and he passed away on October 17, 1849, at the age of 39. His legacy endures, influencing generations of composers and pianists. Today, his works remain beloved by audiences worldwide, a tribute to his unparalleled contribution to classical music.

Catherine Rix is following